Zo″di‐ac (?), n. [F. zodiaque (cf. It. zodiaco), fr. L. zodiacus, Gr. � (sc. �), fr. �, dim. of ζῳ̑ον an animal, akin to � living, � to live.]
1. (Astron.) (a) An imaginary belt in the heavens, 16° or 18° broad, in the middle of which is the ecliptic, or sun's path. It comprises the twelve constellations, which one constituted, and from which were named, the twelve signs of the zodiac. (b) A figure representing the signs, symbols, and constellations of the zodiac.
2. A girdle; a belt.
By his side,
As in a glistering zodiac, hung the sword. Milton.